Counselling Therapy

A structured therapy that encourages the patient to briefly focus on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was initially developed in 1987 for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is guided by the Adaptive Information Processing model. 

Unlike other treatments that focus on directly altering the emotions, thoughts and responses resulting from traumatic experiences, EMDR therapy focuses directly on the memory, and is intended to change the way that the memory is stored in the brain, thus reducing and eliminating the problematic symptoms. It is widely used for trauma work because it helps clients process distressing memories and reduce the symptoms that can stay “stuck” after traumatic experiences.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications. CBT treatment manuals are utilized to develop and deliver treatment plans.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based, trauma-focused form of cognitive behavioural therapy that helps people understand how traumatic experiences have affected their beliefs about themselves, other people, and the world. It is especially known for helping clients identify and challenge stuck or unhelpful trauma-related beliefs so they can reduce PTSD symptoms and regain a greater sense of control.

EFT is an evidence-based couples therapy approach rooted in attachment theory, and research reviews and meta-analyses support its effectiveness for improving relationship satisfaction and emotional bonding. In couples work, EFT helps partners understand their negative cycle, express underlying needs more clearly, and build more secure connection.

The Gottman Method is an evidence-based couples therapy approach grounded in decades of research on what makes relationships thrive. It helps couples strengthen friendship, improve communication, manage conflict more effectively, and build shared meaning, while reducing patterns such as criticism, defensiveness, stonewalling, and contempt.